Cosmic Ray Processes in Galactic Ecosystems

Owen ER, Wu K, Inoue Y, Yang HY, Mitchell A (2023)

Publication Type: Journal article, Review article

Publication year: 2023

Journal

Galaxies MDPI

Book Volume: 11

Article Number: 86

Journal Issue: 4

DOI: 10.3390/galaxies11040086

Abstract

Galaxy evolution is an important topic, and our physical understanding must be complete to establish a correct picture. This includes a thorough treatment of feedback. The effects of thermal–mechanical and radiative feedback have been widely considered; however, cosmic rays (CRs) are also powerful energy carriers in galactic ecosystems. Resolving the capability of CRs to operate as a feedback agent is therefore essential to advance our understanding of the processes regulating galaxies. The effects of CRs are yet to be fully understood, and their complex multi-channel feedback mechanisms operating across the hierarchy of galaxy structures pose a significant technical challenge. This review examines the role of CRs in galaxies, from the scale of molecular clouds to the circumgalactic medium. An overview of their interaction processes, their implications for galaxy evolution, and their observable signatures is provided and their capability to modify the thermal and hydrodynamic configuration of galactic ecosystems is discussed. We present recent advancements in our understanding of CR processes and interpretation of their signatures, and highlight where technical challenges and unresolved questions persist. We discuss how these may be addressed with upcoming opportunities.

Authors with CRIS profile

Alison Mitchell Lehrstuhl für Physik

Involved external institutions

Osaka University JP Japan (JP) University College London (UCL) GB United Kingdom (GB) National Tsing Hua University (NTHU) TW Taiwan (TW)

How to cite

APA:

Owen, E.R., Wu, K., Inoue, Y., Yang, H.Y., & Mitchell, A. (2023). Cosmic Ray Processes in Galactic Ecosystems. Galaxies, 11(4). https://doi.org/10.3390/galaxies11040086

MLA:

Owen, Ellis R., et al. "Cosmic Ray Processes in Galactic Ecosystems." Galaxies 11.4 (2023).

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